Y.M.C.A.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1514, 9 August 1912, Page 6

Y.M.C.A.

. 'AN IMPORTANT TRUST. Mr. E.- K. Peacock, of Sydney and Melbourne, who, during an extended business visit to New Zealand, has interested himself in placing tho Y.M.C.A. movement in this country on a new footing, leaves for Sydney to-day by.the Mnungnnui. In tho course of a farewell circular letter to the presidents, directors, and general secretaries of associations, Mr. Peacock says: "Before leaving New Zealand I am anxious to write to the various associations to express my gratification at the more hopeful outlook for our association movement in New Zealand and to acknowledge the many personal kindnesses which T have received at your hands. Tho National Executive has been firmly established by the unanimous vote of all the associations in New Zealand, and the personnel is such as must command the confidence and respect of the whole .Dominion, both inside and outside association circles. "May I again emphasise what I have been repeatedly urging during my stay among you, that fine buildings and costly equipment do not make a Y.M.C.A. You may have all these and yet not have a Young Men's Christian Association. Bricks and Mortar arc like clothes to a man. Indeed, it has only been too often evidenced that these things have, by reason of their burden of financial anxiety and difficulty of administration, as well as the development of- a spirit of selfcentred importance, actually been a hindrance to the spirit of our association. On the contrary, if there is a proper viewpoint, a recognition of'corporate honour and responsibility to the community for efficient service, a wide vision of the possibilities of the Y.M.C.A. as a nation influencing movement, the big buildings and their equipment may bo great blessing, and valuable means to an end. For this you should have a vision beyond four walls. You should recognise that you are a part of a great whole, you should be united in a national spirit and notional organisation, you'should recognise and support your national organisation, you should recognise and support your national oxorutivo with prayers ami money. The weak, whether largo or small, should be strengthened, and llio strong would gain strength by helping the weak.

"At the present time requests for four trained secretaries have come to the National Executive. There are no trained men avnilable. One of the most valuable services the national secretary could render would be to train men as he is working in the different associations this year, but this would cost money. There are men available for training, but the national executive has no funds for this purpose. Ts it worth while considering whether you cnu secure funds for this important purpose? It would be n sound investment for any man to make. .T leave the suggestion with you. In New Zealand there is n magnificent and unique opportunity lo set an example in these soul hern lands of national solidarity and efficiency in Y.M.C.A. work. I am sure you nil fully renlis? (his. and "ill adequately support your National Executive,"